IFAB set to approve goal-line systems

04 July 2012 03:49

The long wait for goal-line technology will reach its conclusion on Thursday when football's law-makers meet to approve two systems.

The International FA Board (IFAB) are set to give the go ahead to both the Hawk-Eye and the GoalRef systems, which will give the green light to the Premier League and Football Association introducing the technology into their competitions.

A comprehensive series of tests have been carried out on the systems by Swiss scientists and IFAB sources have confirmed to the Press Association that both Hawk-Eye and GoalRef will be deemed to have passed the tests satisfactorily.

Chelsea manager Roberto di Matteo said a system was needed as soon as possible.

Di Matteo said: "We see every season, every big tournament, we need it because there are some crucial moments within those games where, with a bit of technology, you could find the right solution."

There will still be a delay before either system can be used in competitive football, however - each will need to be licensed, installed and then tested in every venue to make sure it is working properly.

The IFAB, who are meeting in Zurich, will also insist the technology is used only as an aid to referees to make a decision, rather than being the deciding factor in whether the ball has crossed the line. It means referees can still decide not to award a goal based on what they see even if the systems are indicating the ball has crossed the line.

FIFA's president Sepp Blatter is now a firm supporter of goal-line technology, having changed his mind after Frank Lampard's disallowed goal for England against Germany in the 2010 World Cup.

The clamour increased last month after Ukraine's disallowed goal against England and has also served to sweep aside any lingering doubts over the systems' margins of error.